398. Apply for OCI or PIO for

child in India

Questions: Dear Sir, Greetings of the season! My name is Anna Maria D'Souza, Indian National holding only Indian passport married to a GHANAIAN national. Having two children a Boy and a Girl. My son is holding Indian passport while my daughter is holding Ghanaian passport. Now, Myself and my both children are in India and both children are studying in Indian educational institutes. My son has no problems staying in India as he is Indian National. But, my girl has to get her visas extended time to time. What are the chances of getting PIO / OCI / INDIAN PASSPORT for my daughter? She is 10 years of age. Would really appreciate receiving your guidance. Thanks and Best Regards Anna Maria D'Souza Answer: All the best to you to for the new year! Your daughter should be eligible to apply for a PIO card, based on her mother being a citizen of India. On the other hand, she could also be eligible for OCI by virtue of her father’s foreign nationality. Kindly note that in case a foreign spouse of a Indian national is separated/divorced, then the minor foreign child can apply for OCI only after reaching age eighteen. Check with your nearest FRRO office in India and seek guidance on applying for OCI or PIO card.